Welcome to our “Ask Dr. Paola” series, where every Monday we bring expert advice straight from Dr. Paola Cuevas (MVZ) to help our readers better understand their cat’s health and well-being.

Whether you’re a new pet parent or a seasoned cat lover, Dr. Paola is here to provide answers to your most pressing questions. From nutrition tips and preventive care to troubleshooting common behavioral issues, Dr. Paola is ready to offer insights that will keep your kitty happy, healthy, and feline fine. Stay tuned for expert guidance on a range of topics that matter most to you and your cat, so you can make informed decisions and provide the best possible care for your furry companion. ‎

Have‎ a ‎question? Send it in here!

Help! My Cat Freaks Me Out!

“Why does Fluff meow at the window at night when nobody is there? It’s kind of spooky…“- Rob

Hi Rob,

I understand that it can feel unsettling when it seems Fluff is reacting to something invisible. Most often, cats meow at windows at night because their senses pick up what ours can’t. Their hearing is far more acute, and their night vision allows them to detect subtle movements outside, such as insects, moths, small animals, or even distant sounds. What feels like “nobody” to us may be a raccoon passing by, a bird rustling in the dark, or another neighborhood cat wandering close.

Sometimes, though, this behavior is more about communication than alarm. Cats that sit at windows at night are often responding to natural instincts related to territory or hunting drive. The moonlight and night sounds can trigger that internal “predator switch,” making them vocal and alert. If Fluff’s nighttime meowing becomes frequent or disruptive, try offering interactive play sessions before bedtime to help her release that extra energy. Closing blinds or providing her with an engaging perch away from the window can also help. If her behavior changes suddenly or she seems distressed, it would be helpful to rule out issues such as anxiety or sensory decline that can make cats more vocal after dark. No need to let it spook you.

Dr. Paola

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Help! My Cat Only Wants to Play with One Toy?

“Why does my cat Theo only want to play with one toy, which is falling apart, and when I try to encourage him to play with other toys he isn’t interested at all? “ – Candace

Hey Candace

This is a lovely and very relatable question. Many cats, like Theo, develop strong preferences for a particular toy because it mimics the exact sensory feedback that triggers their hunting instincts. The sound, texture, size, or even the way it moves might perfectly resemble prey to him. Once a toy “hits that sweet spot,” it becomes his favorite, much like a child clinging to a beloved stuffed animal. When that toy starts to wear out, it can actually retain even more of Theo’s scent, making it even more appealing and comforting.

Cats are creatures of habit, so introducing new toys can take patience and creativity. Try finding replacements that share key features with his favorite one; similar material, movement, or sound. You can also sprinkle a bit of catnip or silvervine on the new toy or use it during interactive play sessions to help him make a positive association. If the old toy is falling apart, it’s best to retire it safely once pieces become a choking hazard. Until then, you might “hide” it briefly to build anticipation while gently encouraging interest in the new options.

If you ever notice Theo losing interest in play altogether, rather than just being picky about toys, it might be worth checking in with a veterinarian, since decreased play can occasionally be linked to discomfort or age-related changes. But from what you describe, it sounds like you just have a cat who knows exactly what he loves. I hope this helps!

Sincerely,

– Dr. Paola

Is It Too Late to Spay My Cat?

“Hi Dr. Paola,

My cat Bea is seven years old. I have adopted her, she is not spayed, is it too late?”- Jocelyn

Hello Jocelyne,

Congratulations on adopting Bea! It’s wonderful that she has a caring person looking out for her. At seven years old, it’s definitely not too late to have her spayed. Cats do not go through menopause as we women do, so even at her age, she can still come into heat and have kittens, sometimes until 14 or 15 years old. Spaying will prevent that, while also protecting her from potentially serious uterine infections such as pyometra, which tend to appear more frequently in unspayed older females.

Before the surgery, your veterinarian will want to perform a full health check and likely some pre-anesthetic blood work to ensure Bea’s organs are functioning well. If she’s in good overall health, spaying is generally very safe and can greatly improve her comfort and long-term well-being. Your veterinarian should also provide you with tailored pre- and post-operative care advice. However, if you have any specific questions and would like to discuss with one of our vets before booking the visit, at Pangovet, we would be happy to help guide you through the first steps so you feel prepared and supported through the process.

Best,

– Dr. Paola